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Appy Monday! Could your phone save a life? Just possibly with these apps...

Every week we review apps in our Appy Monday series. Whilst smart phones are great fun, their ability to provide information fast also has some more serious (and seriously useful) implications This week we are looking at some health related apps that could make the difference when faced with an emergency situation. Read on to find out what we thought.

The app is available for iPhone and Android users. As well as giving background information on meningitis and spticaemia, it has two very useful sections: Symptoms (which gives you the different symptoms to look out for in children and adults, and babies) and Call (which links you to your nearest A&E or GP, or NHS Direct).

Meningitis is unlikely to happen to most of us or our families but it is very important to know the signs and look out for them because it has such serious implications. We feel reassured having this in our back pocket.

St John Ambulance

We also looked at the first aid app from St John Ambulance. Obviously (as the disclaimer on the app higlights), this should not be used instead of going on a first aid course, but it is handy to have as a supplement and for if you need to find out something quickly.

The app is free to download and is excellent because it has very clear and simple instructions to follow, such as you would need if you were in an emergency situation. There are also pictures that are really useful for reminders - for example how to put someone in the recovery position properly or what to do when someone is choking.

The instructions are separated into major (pictured above) and minor situations and the advice is very clear for both. This app is FREE but is currently only available to iPhone users.

We are glad to have both of these apps with us when on the move and at home. Are there any other first aid apps that you recommend or apps that are useful in emergency situations?